Tips can help anyone create better photographs

Award-winning teen photographer Chase Guttman enjoys traveling with his family and capturing special memories with his camera. He shares tips that might inspire the budding shutterbugs in your clan.

Award-winning teen photographer Chase Guttman enjoys traveling with his family and capturing special memories with his camera. He shares tips that might inspire the budding shutterbugs in your clan.

1. Be adventurous.

"Veer off the beaten path. Take the road less traveled," advises Guttman, who has visited more than 48 countries. "Try to compose images that portray the essence of the culture you're experiencing. By thinking outside the box, you can put a fresh spin on a frequently photographed subject or destination. Don't be afraid to experiment."

2. Get closer.

"When you create a feeling of intimacy and connection with your subject, you'll capture stunning portraits," says the New York native. "Every face tells a unique story. Wrinkles map out a life of hardship, and piercing eyes offer a peek into a person's emotional state. In essence, portraiture allows you to unveil your subject's world for all to see."

3. Focus on details.

"Zero in on essential details that will tell a larger story about the people or destination you're capturing. Be aware that what you leave out of the frame can be as important as what you include," he advises. "With focus, you can effectively squeeze an exciting visual experience within the rectangular-shaped frame."

4. Join the action.

"By diving into the middle of the action, you'll capture an array of energy and emotion. Local markets, sporting events and festivals offer unique insights into people's daily lives," Guttman says. "No matter what camera you have in hand, you can paint dynamic and visually arresting action shots by clicking the shutter while moving your body at the same pace as the moving object you're trying to capture."

5. Plan ahead.

"It helps to be in the right place at the right time," he says. "Morning conditions offer unique advantages. . . . Wildlife is more likely to be active and visible. A tranquil atmosphere makes water reflections more pristine, and you'll have a better chance to capture dawn's magical mist and dew. Also, early morning and evening lighting provide the best opportunities to create stupendous landscape and cityscape shots."